Tour detail

Escape the hustle and bustle of Saigon and experience the vibrant culture of the Mekong Delta on our one-day trip, where you’ll cruise along scenic waterways, visit bustling local markets, and savor the region’s unique cuisine for an unforgettable adventure

CHILDREN‘S PRICE

• Under 1-4 years old: FOC (please share the seat & food with their parents)
• From 5 to 11 years old: 75 % Adult‘s price
• From 12 years old up: Adult’s price

Notes: In the case of 2 children in a family, the children’s price is applied for the first child under 11 years. The Adult’s price will be applied to the second child.

Imagine a place where life flows as smoothly as the rivers that weave through it. Welcome to the Mekong Delta, a fascinating region in southern Vietnam that offers a glimpse into a world shaped by water. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about planning the perfect Mekong Delta tour. So, grab your travel journal, and let’s explore the wonders of the Mekong Delta together!

Top Destinations to Include in Your Mekong Delta Tour

The Mekong Delta is a treasure trove of unique destinations, each offering its own charm and character. This section will introduce some of the most popular stops that should be on your itinerary!

1. Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho)

Cai Rang is the most famous floating market in the Mekong Delta. Here, you can see boats filled with fresh fruits, flowers, and cooked meals being sold directly on the water. Vendors display their products on poles, making it easy to find what you want.

2. Ben Tre Coconut Islands

Ben Tre is called the “Kingdom of Coconuts” because of its large coconut farms and calm waterways. When you visit, you can take a boat trip on the shady canals, stop by a coconut candy workshop, and see how locals use coconuts for food and crafts.

3. Tra Su Cajuput Forest (An Giang)

This ecotourism hotspot is a dream for nature lovers. Glide through emerald-green waterways surrounded by dense cajuput trees. The forest is also home to many bird species, making it perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.

4. Khmer Temples (Chau Doc and Tra Vinh)

The Mekong Delta is a mix of cultures, especially showing its Khmer heritage in the beautiful temples. The colorful and detailed pagodas give insight into the spiritual life of the Khmer people. Be sure to visit the well-known Hang Pagoda (Cave Pagoda) in Chau Doc and the Ang Pagoda in Tra Vinh.

5. Vinh Long and Local Homestays

Vinh Long is the perfect place to experience the Delta’s rural charm. Here, you can visit fruit orchards, take a boat ride, or stay with a local family. Homestays offer a unique chance to enjoy home-cooked meals and learn more about the day-to-day lives of the locals.

Writer’s tip: Choose a mix of popular and lesser-known places to make your trip both easy and exciting. The Mekong Delta is full of variety, so feel free to explore!

Top Activities That Make a Mekong Delta Tour Unforgettable

1. Floating markets

The floating markets are the heart of the Mekong Delta. Cai Rang is the most famous, but you can also visit smaller markets like Phong Dien or Long Xuyen. These markets show the unique river-based trade culture, with boats selling everything from tropical fruits to bowls of pho. It’s a lively experience that captures life on the water.

2. Fruit orchards

The Delta is known for its fruits, and visiting an orchard is a must. Depending on the season, you can taste fresh mangoes, durians, longans, or rambutans from the trees. Here’s a tip for you: some orchards let you pick your own which brings so much fun.

3. Cycling through villages

Cycling is a great way to enjoy the Delta’s rural beauty. You can ride along narrow paths, past rice fields and stilted houses, and take in the peaceful scenery. It’s eco-friendly and helps you connect with local life.

4. Ecotourism sites

For nature lovers, the Mekong Delta is a paradise. You can visit places like Tra Su Cajuput Forest to glide through flooded forests rich with wildlife, or U Minh Thuong National Park for bird watching. The key highlight is the calm atmosphere here provides a perfect escape from the city.

5. Traditional music performances

The Mekong Delta features Đờn Ca Tài Tử, a traditional music recognized by UNESCO. Small groups of musicians perform this soulful music, reflecting the spirit of the region. Many tours include performances at local cultural centers or during meals at homestays.

6. Coconut candy and handicrafts

In Ben Tre, visit workshops where locals make coconut candy, rice paper, or woven mats. It’s interesting to see how these traditional crafts continue today. Don’t forget to pick up some handmade souvenirs to take home!

How Long Should You Spend on a Mekong Delta Tour?

For 1-day tour

If you’re short on time, a one-day tour is a great choice. You’ll see the Delta’s charm with a quick visit to a floating market, like Cai Rang or Phong Dien. Enjoy a boat ride along small canals and stop at local fruit orchards or coconut factories. This tour provides a nice introduction to vibrant river life.

For 2-3 day tours

For a deeper experience, choose a two or three-day tour. You’ll have time to visit places like Can Tho, Ben Tre, and Tra Su Cajuput Forest. This length allows for a relaxing homestay, where you can meet locals and learn about their daily lives. You can explore at a more relaxed pace.

For 4+ day tours

If you have more time, spend four or more days exploring the Mekong Delta. This lets you visit less touristy areas, bike through rice fields, and discover the rich Khmer culture in places like Chau Doc and Tra Vinh. You can also enjoy the seasonal beauty of the region, whether it’s during the floating season or the fruit harvest.

Editor’s tip: If you’re unsure how many days to spend, consider your travel style. Do you like to see quick highlights, or do you prefer to explore a place in depth? Whatever your choice, the Mekong Delta has something for you.

Sample Itinerary for a One-Day Mekong Delta Tour

Are you planning your Mekong Delta tour 1 day itinerary? Here’s a detailed schedule to help you make the most of your visit. 

9:00 AM: Pick-up from Ho Chi Minh City

• Start your adventure with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or a central meeting point in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through lush countryside landscapes as you head towards Ben Tre, the heart of the Mekong Delta.

11:00 AM – 3:30 PM: Explore Ben Tre

Start your exploration of Ben Tre with a relaxing boat ride on the Tien River. You will pass by four beautiful islets: Dragon, Kirin, Tortoise, and Phoenix. These islets have deep cultural meanings and represent mythical creatures important in Southeast Asian stories. The calm boat ride and lush surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere for your day of exploration.

Next, visit a honey bee farm. Here, you can see how honey is made and taste fresh honey tea. This sweet treat introduces you to the simple, sustainable lifestyle of the Delta.

Afterward, stop at a coconut candy workshop. You will enjoy the delightful smell of fresh coconut. Watching artisans make these chewy sweets is fascinating, and tasting the candies right away is a real treat.

A highlight of the day is a live performance of Don Ca Tai Tu, a traditional folk music style from the Mekong Delta. As the beautiful songs play, you will better understand the region’s artistic tradition. This music is recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, connecting you to the Delta’s spirit.

Then, slow down as you board a small rowing boat to glide through peaceful mangrove palm canals. This quiet experience allows you to enjoy the Delta’s natural beauty. After this, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the village, which gives you a taste of life in the 19th century.

Your visit ends at Vinh Trang Pagoda. This stunning place features a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer architectural styles. Walk through its lovely gardens, admire the detailed carvings, and take in the sight of its tall Buddha statues.

6:00 PM: Return to your accommodation

• Arrive back at your hotel or drop-off point in Ho Chi Minh City.
• The exact arrival time may vary depending on traffic, but you’ll be filled with unforgettable memories of your day in the Mekong Delta.

When is the Best Time for the Mekong Delta Tour?

Dry season (December to April)

The dry season is the best time to visit the Mekong Delta. The warm and sunny weather is perfect for outdoor activities like cycling, boat tours, and visiting floating markets. With little to no rain, it’s easier to get around the waterways and see the beautiful scenery.

However, remember that this is the peak tourist season, so popular places like Cai Rang Floating Market can become crowded. It’s a good idea to book your tours and places to stay in advance.

Floating Season (July to November)

The floating season, caused by the annual monsoon rains, turns the Mekong Delta into a water wonderland. Rivers fill up, canals overflow and the area’s unique aquatic life comes alive. Locals also harvest floating water lilies and fish during this time, creating beautiful scenes for photographers.

However, the rain can disrupt outdoor plans. It’s a good idea to bring rain gear and have flexible plans.

If you prefer sunny skies and easier travel, visit during the dry season. But if you want to see the Delta at its most unique and are okay with some rain, the floating season has great rewards. Either way, the Mekong Delta promises unforgettable memories, no matter when you visit.

Conclusion

The Mekong Delta is a destination like no other, where the vibrant culture, tranquil waterways, and warm hospitality come together to create an unforgettable experience. From floating markets to traditional music performances, every moment spent here offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of Vietnam’s river life.

Ready to start your journey? Book your Mekong Delta tour today with Vietnam Backpacker Hostel and let the magic of this unique region unfold before your eyes!